Lake Ice & Outdoor Skating

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​Throughout winter, the Snow/Maintenance Foreman assesses the ice conditions once a week in the designated skating areas at Henderson Lake, Nicholas Sheran Lake and Chinook Lake using the following criteria:

The presence of standing water or open water

The amount of freezing that has occurred

Snow cover

Present thickness of the ice

Present condition of the ice

Present clarity of the ice

Air temperature

Once an assessment has been made from the information gathered, the Snow/Maintenance Foreman will share the information and declare if the lake ice meets the standards for public use. This information is shared in the News Centre, on our website as well as on Facebook and Twitter.

Here are the current ice conditions for the designated skating areas at Chinook, Henderson and Nicholas Sheran Lakes. Please note, ice measurements will NOT be taken if there is open water on the lake.

​Lake

Thickness

Condition

Rating

Chinook Lake

Average ice thickness: 16 inches

Good/Snow Covered

Does NOT meet City of Lethbridge standards for public use due to excess water on the surface

Henderson Lake

Average ice thickness: 17 inches

Good/Snow Covered

Does NOT meet City of Lethbridge standards for public use due to excess water on the surface

Nicholas Sheran Lake

Average ice thickness: 17 inches

Good/Snow Covered

Does NOT meet City of Lethbridge standards for public use due to excess water on the surface

Most recent update: March 18, 2019.

If you have questions about lake ice please call the Lake Ice Line: 403-320-4974.

Lake Ice in Lethbridge

The condition, strength and stability of ice can change dramatically depending on temperature, precipitation, wind and the amount of sunshine.

Unique weather variables such as frequent Chinook winds that can see air temperature going above freezing for six hours over a 24 hour period can cause ice to lose strength and stability.

Chinook winds bring warmer temperatures that can quickly affect the melting rate for ice along the shore and near bridges which can lead to open water. As well, following a Chinook, a rapid, large temperature drop can make ice brittle.

Storm Ponds

Storm pond water/ice contact is prohibited. Ice on storm ponds is not monitored by the City.

It is dangerous to walk, play or skate on any ice surface that has areas of open water. Water entering storm ponds can contain impurities and is warmer in temperature, which can contribute to unstable and unpredictable ice conditions. Water levels in storm ponds can fluctuate, increasing the odds of air pockets. Please stay off storm ponds at all times.

Ice Fishing

Ice fishing is not permitted in designated skating areas.

Ice Safety

If you see someone fall through the ice call 911 immediately. Click here for additional ice safety tips including what to do if your pet goes onto unsafe ice and how to protect yourself around ice.